Is it true that only study scores over 40 are ‘good’? While a study score over 40 is traditionally recognised by publication in the newspaper, let’s break down what your scores actually mean.
Firstly, study scores are a comparative measure of achievement in a subject. This means that rather than a grade, they actually represent your performance in comparison to every other student who took the same subject. This is why scaling exists, an attempt to account for higher or lower levels of competition in some subjects.
If you take a look at VCAA’s webpages explaining study scores, you can get an idea of where your study score places you. Simply, the mean study score of every subject is 30, with a maximum of 50. In subjects where there are over 1,000 students enrolled, 93% of students score over 20; 53% of students score over 30; only 15% over 38; 9% over 40 and 2% over 45. Thus, the significant middle-range lies between scores of 23 – 37, according to VCAA.
As a tutor, one of the most common goals I hear from my students is, “I just want to get a 40…” However, what is worth remembering is that this means you will need to outperform 91% of the state in that subject, which is no mean feat! Ultimately, what counts is the effort you put in. Everyone begins Year 12 from different starting points, and for some, scoring over 30 in a subject is a significant achievement. As everyone receives their results in little over a week from now, I want my students to remember that whatever they score, I am still so proud of the efforts they have put in this year.
If you loved this article, you will LOVE all of our other articles, such as: 3 Facts You Should Know About Your ATAR, Tips for Supporting Your Child in Year 11 and 12! and Important Things to Remember About Course Preferences
About Learnmate
Learnmate is a trusted Australian community platform that connects students who want 1:1 or small group study support, with tutors who are looking to share their knowledge and earn an income. From primary school to high school subjects — from science and maths to niche subjects like visual communication — Learnmate can help you improve academic performance or boost confidence, at your pace with the tutor that you choose.
We pride ourselves in offering a reliable and positive experience for both our students and tutors. Every tutor that joins the platform is vetted to meet a level of academic excellence, teaching qualification or relevant experience. All tutors are provided the opportunity to complete professional training.
Students and parents can easily find and screen for tutors based on their location, their subject results or skill level, and whether they provide in-person or online sessions. Learnmate is proud to provide tutors in Melbourne, Sydney, Geelong, Brisbane, Hobart, Canberra, Perth & Adelaide, and other locations.